It only seems like the number of subplots equal the number of all-time meetings as the 172nd edition of the Manchester derby is set for Saturday at Old Trafford when United and City put their unblemished records on the line. The two have circled each other before, though this time the 4.3 miles separating the two stadia of Manchester makes Saturday a far more intimate affair than the 310 that buffered them between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Mourinho has always worn the black hat in this rivalry ever since 2008 when "The Special One" was passed over by Barcelona's front office and ownership for Guardiola, the former Catalan defender who was elevated from coaching Barca's "B" squad.
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